Closing Week Game Plan: 14 Things Sellers Must Do (So Nothing Blows Up After Escrow)

Moving is chaotic. This checklist keeps your sale clean, your buyers happy, and your wallet protected.

1) File your change of address as soon as contingencies are removed

USPS forwarding can take weeks, not days. Forward mail to a PO box, a friend, or family. Do not rely on your departing address. Packages sent to the old home may be tossed or returned.

2) Schedule utility shut-offs for the day after the scheduled close

Delays happen. Set shut-off for the next day so you are not left in the dark if closing slides. Buyers may forget to start service. If you forget to stop service, you may pay their first month.

3) Return internet and cable equipment

Modems and routers are your provider’s property. If you leave them, you may be charged several hundred dollars and you may not be allowed back in to retrieve them. Uninstall and return before you hand over keys.

4) Keep paying mortgage, HOA, and insurance up to close

Do not skip a payment that falls near closing. Title or escrow will prorate and you will receive the balance back. Skipping creates late fees and headaches.

5) Leave the home clean and empty

“As is” does not mean “as a mess.” Deliver the home in the same clean condition buyers saw when they made the offer. Hire a move-out cleaner. Wipe surfaces, vacuum, mop, and remove all debris inside and out.

6) Leave nail holes alone

Removing hooks and patching can create mismatched paint and sheen disputes. Leave small nail holes. If buyers want patching, it is cleaner to credit them.

7) Remove all trash and do not “gift” leftover items

Paint cans, garden tools, and random supplies are not welcome unless the buyer agrees in writing. Otherwise the buyer can hire removal and charge you.

8) After closing, cancel your homeowner’s policy and mind rent-back coverage

If you have a rent-back or any post-close occupancy, obtain renters insurance for your personal property and liability during that period.

9) Notify all service providers that you are moving

Tell the gardener, pool service, pest control, and cleaners to stop service as of closing. If they did great work, leave their contacts for the buyer as a courtesy.

10) Confirm any city or HOA move rules

Some communities restrict move-ins or move-outs on certain days or hours. Check before you book trucks to avoid fines or last-minute reschedules.

11) Coordinate PODs and dumpsters with the buyer

Storage containers or roll-off bins cannot block access at close. If timing slips, you need written buyer approval and a plan for placement. Do not assume.

12) Leave all remotes and make sure they work

Garage and gate remotes must be operational, not just tossed in a drawer. Disclose the correct count on your forms and program them before you leave.

13) How fast you get your funds

Wires typically arrive the next business day after recording. Same day is rare and usually only for early morning, all-cash closings. Weekends and holidays roll to the next business day.

14) Quick etiquette that prevents drama

• Label keys, fobs, mailbox keys, and pool keys.

• Leave appliance manuals and codes.

• Photograph rooms after you vacate to document condition.